• Don’t allow children to go “Trick or Treating” alone. An adult should accompany young children and make sure that all children carry a glow stick or flashlight and wear reflective clothing.
• Accompany young children to the door of every house they approach. Stay within sight of the door when opened. Children should be cautioned to never enter a home without prior permission from their parents.
• Stay in familiar neighborhoods and only visit well-lit homes that have their outdoor lights on. Parents should be familiar with every house and with all people from which the children receive treats.
• Children should be cautioned never to approach any vehicle, occupied or not, unless they know the owner and are accompanied by a parent.
• All costumes and masks should be clearly marked as flame resistant. When using facemasks, make sure the child can see and breathe properly and easily.
• Don’t cut through yards, parks or alleys. Walk — don’t run, and stay on the sidewalks. Cross only at intersections and crosswalks, not between cars. Don’t forget to look both ways before crossing the street.
• Be sure to carry a flashlight with fresh batteries and make sure your child knows your phone number and address. For children under 12, attach a tag with their name, address and phone number (including area code) to their clothes in case they get separated. Older children who might be going out with friends should have a cell phone, mapped route and set a time to come home.
• Children should be cautioned to remember any suspicious incidents and report them to their parents or a trusted adult and the police.
• Children should be cautioned to run away immediately from people who try to lure them with special treats. Children should be instructed to scream and make a scene if anyone tries to grab them or force them, in any way, to go with them.
• Don’t approach unknown animals or pets; they could be frightened by the costumes or strange noises.
• Parents should inspect all treats and dispose of anything that has been opened or has never been wrapped. The police should be notified if something has been tampered with.